Heading to Mexico City in the near future? If you’re a vinyl lover like me, Mexico City has some of the best record shops in the game, featuring genres galore and unmatched vibes you can’t find anywhere else. ⚡️🎶 To help you make the most of your travels, here are some of our favorite record stores you absolutely do not want to miss while you’re in town…
The Best CDMX Record Stores According to SymStaff
Discodromo
If you’re looking for a crate-digging experience that leans into the rare and unexpected, Discodromo is a must-visit. Tucked in Roma Norte, this shop was founded by Aleph, a former economist turned passionate collector, and has grown into a go-to spot for fans of cumbia, garage rock, funk, jazz, surf, and psychedelia. Beyond vinyl, you’ll find everything from vintage tees to fanzines and limited-edition pressings.
After surviving the 2017 earthquake, the store relocated and came back even stronger, now doubling as a cultural hub with DJ sets, listening sessions, and Record Store Day events. It’s a favorite among local DJs, casual listeners, and international collectors alike.
El Club del Rock & Roll
El Club del Rock & Roll is more than just a record store. They offer a multifaceted experience for music enthusiasts; a cultural hub where vinyl records meet live performances, art exhibitions, and a cozy bar serving craft beers and mezcal.
The store boasts an extensive collection of vinyl records across various genres, including rock, pop, jazz, electronic, and more. Beyond music, El Club del Rock & Roll hosts regular events such as listening parties, DJ sets, and live concerts, fostering a dynamic community for music lovers from all over.
La Roma Records
Serving as a cornerstone for Mexico City’s vinyl community, La Roma Records has become a go-to destination for music lovers. The store offers an extensive selection of vinyl records across various genres, including rock, pop, jazz, and more. Beyond records, La Roma Records provides a range of audio equipment, such as Pro-Ject turntables and accessories, making it a one-stop shop for audiophiles. La Roma Records The store also engages with the local music scene through events and collaborations, fostering a vibrant community around music culture.
Retroactivo Records
Established in 2004 by Claudio Pérez and Alejandro Baeza, Retroactivo Records has become a cornerstone for vinyl in Mexico City. Located in the heart of Roma Norte, the store boasts an extensive collection of over 35,000 records, encompassing genres like rock, jazz, disco, metal, progressive, pop en español, tropical, and more. The shop’s origins trace back to a small space in Pérez’s mother’s antique store, eventually moving to its current location on Jalapa Street. Retroactivo is renowned not only for its vast selection but also for its commitment to preserving musical heritage.
Revancha
Nestled in the heart of Roma Norte, Revancha stands out as a haven for aficionados of Afro-diasporic rhythms. Founded in 2015 by Manuel “La Gran eMe” Carrasco, a seasoned radio host and hip-hop connoisseur, the store offers a meticulously curated selection of vinyl records spanning hip-hop, funk, soul, reggae, jazz, salsa, and Afrobeat. Carrasco’s vision was to create a space dedicated to genres rooted in the African diaspora, providing a unique musical experience in Mexico City. Beyond its impressive vinyl collection, Revancha enriches the cultural landscape by hosting DJ sets, listening sessions, and special events, particularly during occasions like Record Store Day. The store’s intimate ambiance, combined with Carrasco’s personal touch.
99Records
Tucked inside a sleek, minimalist space in Roma Norte, 99 Records offers a carefully curated selection of vinyl for those with a taste for the underground. Expect everything from house, techno, ambient, and experimental to soul, jazz, and global grooves… each handpicked with care. The vibe is calm and refined, making it a great spot to dig in peace and discover something unexpected. If you’re into high-quality pressings and niche genres, this spot should absolutely be on your list. (Bonus: after crate-digging, head upstairs to Shhh, the store’s intimate listening bar, for a cocktail and a deeper sonic experience. 🍷🍸)
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Whether you’re a seasoned digger hunting for rare gems or just looking to spend a chill afternoon flipping through vinyl, CDMX has a record store for every kind of music lover. So next time you’re in town, carve out some time, grab a tote bag, and go explore… You never know what record might end up changing your life.
Happy listening!
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